Oncology Biosimilar Savings
| Reference Biologic | Annual Cost | Biosimilar Savings | Available Biosimilars |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rituxan (rituximab) | $50,000–$100,000 | 30–40% | Truxima, Ruxience, Riabni |
| Herceptin (trastuzumab) | $60,000–$100,000 | 30–40% | Ogivri, Herzuma, Kanjinti |
| Avastin (bevacizumab) | $60,000–$120,000 | 30–40% | Mvasi, Zirabev, Alymsys |
Site of Care Management
Oncology drugs administered in a hospital outpatient setting cost 2–4x more than the same drugs administered in a physician office or infusion center. Site of care management — directing members to lower-cost settings for oncology drug administration — can save 30–50% on oncology drug costs, independent of biosimilar adoption.
Physician Resistance
IQ Insight
Oncology biosimilar adoption is lower than immunology biosimilar adoption — partly due to physician resistance. Oncologists are often reluctant to switch stable patients from reference biologics to biosimilars, citing concerns about immunogenicity and efficacy. Provide oncologists with evidence-based information about biosimilar safety and efficacy, and engage them in the formulary change process.